Fireplace Installation in Washington, DC — Costs $4,229 to $50,744

What does fireplace installation cost in Washington? Average $13,532, ranging $4,229–$50,744. Labor runs $56.18/hr locally — 69% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Washington, DC Market

+69% vs national

Labor Rate

$56.18/hr

Material Index

147

Avg Permit Cost

$2,983

Median Home Price

$630,092

As one of the largest metros in District of Columbia, Washington has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. At 69% above the national average, Washington is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. With a median home price of $630,092, this fireplace installation represents just 2.1% of typical home value — a relatively small investment that can significantly boost curb appeal or functionality.

Low Estimate

$4,229

National: $2,500

Mid-Range

$13,532

National: $8,000

High End

$50,744

National: $30,000

Per Sq Ft

$0

National: $0

Duration: 3-7 days
DIY: Hard
Permits: Required
ROI: 80%

Fireplace Installation Cost Calculator for Washington

Adjusted for Washington's labor rate ($56.18/hr) and material costs (index 147).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.

Estimated Total in Washington

$12,991

Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Washington market rates.

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (55%)$7,443

At Washington's average rate of $56.18/hr (87% above national avg)

Materials (45%)$6,089

Material cost index 147 (47% above national baseline of 100)

Fireplace Installation vs. Home Value in Washington

MetricWashingtonNational Avg
Fireplace Installation (Mid-Range)$13,532$8,000
Median Home Price$630,092$350,000
Project as % of Home Value2.1%2.3%
Estimated ROI80%80%
Median Household Income$103,074$75,000

What Affects the Price in Washington

  • 1Local labor rates ($56.18/hr in Washington)
  • 2Material cost index (147 vs national 100)
  • 3Fireplace type (gas, electric, wood)
  • 4Venting requirements
  • 5Surround and mantel
  • 6Gas line extension

Popular Upgrades

  • Linear gas fireplace
  • Tiled surround
  • Floating mantel shelf

Planning a Fireplace Installation in Washington

Building permits are typically required for a fireplace installation in Washington. The average permit fee in this area is $2,983, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 3-7 days from start to finish.

A fireplace installation is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Washington, skilled contractors charge an average of $56.18/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

With a median household income of $103,074, many Washington residents can budget for this project through savings. The mid-range cost of $13,532 represents 13% of the typical household's annual income.

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